The book starts slowly (although the whole setting the ambiance around the guillotine is amazing) but now it has definetely picked up and it's hard to put it down. The author's detailed research is showing as he comments on the figures around the Terror and Thermidor.

I did enjoy the book, but I think the first part (1789-1791) was stronger. The POVs varied in quality, I found Pauline, Danton, Claire and Robespierre's stronger than Manon and Condorcet's. There were some characterisation choices I don't agree with: I think Danton lacked some strenght and I am not so sure about Robespierre's portrayal of ever-increasing insanity, as well as his treatment of Elèanor.

The prose was flat at some points but it was good at showing the material realities of Paris in the late 18th century, especially between the lower classes.

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